Wellbutrin XR – use, indications, contraindications, side effects

Wellbutrin is an antidepressant drug. The main active ingredient in this drug is buproprion, therefore it can only be obtained with a prescription and can only be purchased with a prescription. In addition to treating depression, it can be used in smoking cessation as it inhibits the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine by the nerve cell located upstream of the synapse. It also has minimal effect on serotonin reuptake, but does not inhibit monoamine oxidase activity. Therefore, it is effectively used in reducing symptoms in the so-called Abstinence Syndrome in quitting smoking.

When and how is Wellbutrin XR used?

When used for withdrawal symptoms after smoking cessation, it is used for 7 to 9 weeks, during which time the drug facilitates nicotine withdrawal and prevents relapse. However, in the treatment of depression, it is used in the treatment of major depressive episodes.

Wellbutrin is a modified release tablet formulation. This means that it is used orally. It is very important not to exceed the recommended dose, as this will not increase its effectiveness and may harm and cause symptoms of poisoning. This medicine can only be obtained with a prescription and it is the doctor who should prescribe the exact dosage.

However, unless otherwise noted, the adult dosage is as follows: 150 mg (one tablet) daily, every 24 hours. If there is no improvement after four weeks of using the product, your doctor may recommend a dose of 2 tablets (300 mg) once a day. However, in the case of treating depression, it is a treatment prescribed by a doctor for a period of at least 6 months, therefore the effects may not appear immediately, but only after changing the dose. However, you must not change the dose yourself. This can only be done by the attending physician.

Contraindications to the use of Wellbutrin

As with any drug, and Wellbutrin has contraindications to use. First of all, it is an allergy, that is, hypersensitivity to a drug component. Contraindications are also the use of other drugs based on bupropion, as well as seizures, liver cirrhosis, a tumor of the central nervous system, past or presently diagnosed bulimia or anorexia nervosa, treatment with MAO inhibitors, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

In addition, Wellbutrin is not used in children and adolescents under 18 years of age, and in patients who are taking certain medications, such as sedatives, or those suffering from alcoholism or who have suddenly stopped drinking alcohol.

Some diseases and other circumstances may also constitute a contraindication to the use of this drug, so if in doubt, the doctor will order additional tests. Also, if the history shows that the patient has an increased risk of seizures, alcohol dependence, diabetes treated with hyperglycaemic drugs or insulin, treatment with Wellbutrin is not recommended.

Possible side effects

As with many medications, and with Wellbutrin therapy, side effects can occur, but may not necessarily occur in all users of the drug. It depends on your general health and your individual response to treatment.

Side effects of taking Wellbutrin include insomnia, headache, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, and allergic skin reactions such as hives. Other symptoms may include: loss of appetite, taste disturbance, abdominal pain, constipation, agitation, dizziness, tremors, tinnitus or an increase in blood pressure, sweating or fever. If disturbing symptoms occur, they should be consulted with a doctor.